On Friday, March 2nd, a powerful nor'easter came through NJ cutting a path of downed trees and power and lines knocking out electrical service to thousand of people in the state.

With a steady falling of rain, mixed with snow and sleet, fueled by wind gusts in the 40 to 50 mph range, had the the OVFD responding to numerous calls of sparking power lines, fallen trees and blocked roads. The volume of calls occurred over a several hour period with the most intensive period being a 15 minute window where the OVFD received 6 calls spanning incidents occurring over all sections of the Borough.

Due to tree damage and downed power lines, several roads were blocked off, and OEM Director Roy Bauberger opened the Oakland Senior Center as a warming station for residents who were effected by the nor'easter. The wind gusts were so strong that local electric was unable to be restored during the nor'easter mainly for safety of electrical crews. As of Saturday, March 3rd, there were still areas in Oakland that were without power and the best estimate was that all power would be restored by Sunday.

Residents are reminded not to approach any downed wires as they can be very dangerous - please report downed wires and trees to the Oakland Police Department at 201-337-6171.